We're currently in the midst of election-frenzy in Paris. The first round of voting took place last Sunday (with a solid Sarkozy victory) and the second and last round will occur this coming Sunday. There are posters and stickers and flyers everywhere, and the metro is full of scribbled slogans or messages of support. It seems fairly certain that Sarko will win, which is a little strange because almost every French person I've talked to said that he or she was scared of his politics and his vision for the country. My host mother in particular thinks there will be massive youth demonstrations and rioting throughout France if and when Sarko wins, so I may see some excitement next week! The Left seems too divided to carry the day, and most of the French aren't inspired by Segolène due to her lack of defined platform. It's fantastic to witness the energy leading up to the elections - unlike in the US, most of the French really engage themselves in politics and become very passionate about the issues.
Before the first elections, I spent a week with the Glénans school of sailing in the south of France. It was absolutely incredible! I got to hone my skills on a 30 foot cruising sail boat, and I also got to experiment with catamarans, which are much faster and sportier. Best of all, I really got to live la vie française for the week, surrounded by and speaking French every minute, tallking with French people of all ages and backgrounds, learning slang and everyday expressions and the general French way of doing things. And I finally, finally, finally (after 6 years of taking French) learned the French "r"! Somehow the magical switch occured, and French no longer feels awkward in my mouth - I can't describe what a wonderful feeling it is. It was also my first time out of Paris, and I loved exploring the south and experiencing the soft, warm Mediterranean vibe. The week was certainly a highlight of my semester abroad, and I hope to participate in another Glénans program soon!
Back in Paris, I've been gradually working on my list of must-dos. And last night, I finally went dansing! My friend's host brother plays in a salsa band, so we all went to his show in a charming concert hall in the Bois des Vincennes and got a taste of the Paris latino subculture. Wonderful food, welcoming atmosphere, great salsa, and dancing all around. Hopefully I'll be able to listen to the band again before I leave the city.
And some more pictures to wrap things up from my time in Montpellier and Normandie. Just a warning, I've fallen in love with France and I might just move to Montpellier. Who knows!
